Free-agent outfielder Yasiel Puig is signing with the Atlanta Braves, per Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. This move comes into fruition due to outfielder Nick Markakis opting-out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns. Puig will join the young and perennial MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. along with the acrobatic Ender Incierate in the outfield for Atlanta.
What this move means for Atlanta:
Puig, 29, looks to have a strong year after being traded to Cleveland after the 2019 All-Star break from Cincinnati. The 2014 All-Star brings an infusion of energy and power to an already lively Braves roster. Puig’s bright personality will join the likes of Ozzie Albies, Marcell Ozuna, Dansby Swansom and Freddie Freeman in the clubhouse.
Batting .267 with 27 home runs and 64 RBI’s last season, Puig looks to replicate those numbers in the upcoming shortened season. With Puig in the daily roster in Atlanta, this fills the gap on the outfield depth.
The notable and potential game-changing signing increases Atlanta’s potential regular season and playoff success. If the Cuban native is able to produce solid numbers at the plate and show off his electric defensive work, the Braves will certainly get their money’s worth with this signing.
Photo: The Athletic
